Highly Mutated COVID-19 Variant BA.2.86 Not as Concerning as Feared, New Data Suggests
New data from Moderna and Pfizer/BioNTech indicates that the highly mutated variant of COVID-19 known as BA.2.86, or “Pirola,” is not as concerning as originally feared. This variant, which is being closely monitored by the World Health Organization and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, has been detected in several U.S. states and multiple countries.
While COVID infections and hospitalizations have been rising globally, they are still well below previous peaks. It is important to note that the BA.2.86 variant is not the only contributor to current cases in the U.S. Other variants, such as EG.5 and FL.1.5.1, also play a role.
Although BA.2.86 carries more than 35 mutations, which initially raised concerns about its potential to cause a major surge, independent studies conducted in laboratories suggest that it is unlikely to lead to a surge similar to that caused by the Omicron variant.
Encouragingly, vaccines, including the updated versions, are expected to provide protection against BA.2.86 and other circulating variants. Moderna’s retooled vaccine has shown a significant increase in human antibodies against BA.2.86, giving hope that it can effectively combat the variant. Pfizer’s updated vaccine has also demonstrated neutralizing activity against BA.2.86 and EG.5 in studies conducted on mice.
Currently, the updated vaccines are undergoing review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are expected to be available this month. If approved, these vaccines will provide an additional layer of protection against the evolving landscape of COVID-19 variants.
Overall, while the BA.2.86 variant continues to be monitored closely, the latest data suggests that it may not pose as significant a threat as initially anticipated. With the ongoing efforts to update and distribute effective vaccines, there is hope that we can continue to make progress in controlling the spread of the virus and protecting public health.
“Infuriatingly humble tv expert. Friendly student. Travel fanatic. Bacon fan. Unable to type with boxing gloves on.”